Online Master’s in Cyber Security

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Michael Stroup
Written By - Michael Stroup

Check MarkEdited By Christine Skopec

Check MarkReview & Contribution By Kira McDonald

Cyber security professionals use cutting-edge tools to monitor networks for malicious activity and prevent intrusions. As more businesses rely on technological infrastructure for routine tasks, there is a greater need for trained personnel to ensure the security of computer systems and other networks that store sensitive data. In fact, from 2020 to 2030, the employment of information security analysts is expected to expand by 33%, substantially faster than the average for all occupations. An online master’s in cyber security can help people who want to specialize in a specific aspect of the profession, as well as analysts and engineers who are already working in the field and want to learn more about leadership and management. Read on to find out more about this in-demand degree.

Online Master’s in Cyber Security

Southern New Hampshire University

PROGRAM: MS Cybersecurity

Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on campus students, over 170,000 online students, making it one of the fastest growing universities in the nation. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.

We’re proud to provide affordable, accessible education that students can pursue on our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH, or via our innovative online platform.

SNHU has earned the GetEducated.com Best Buy and Best of Business – Best Online Degree awards and is consistently ranked as a top Military Friendly® School by G.I Jobs®.

National University

PROGRAM: Master of Science in Technology Management – Cybersecurity Management

National University, headquartered in San Diego, California, was founded in 1971 to provide educational opportunities for adult learners and working professionals. It offers over 190 degree programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, with flexible online and on-campus courses. Serving around 40,000 students and over 240,000 alumni, the university is recognized for its support of U.S. military members. Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), National University is committed to accessible and transformative higher education.

Best Online Master’s in Cyber Security

Best Online Master's in Cyber Security

Almost every student wishes to continue their education at a prestigious university. However, finding the best colleges for an online master’s in cyber security degree can be difficult because several factors must be considered when ranking them. These factors include the school’s reputation and infrastructure, curriculum, accreditation, affordability, etc. FBD teams identified and listed some of the best schools offering online cyber security master’s degrees using a proprietary formula and methodology. Here is the ranking list: *

The University of California (UC) is a public land-grant research university system in California. Founded in 1868, CU comprises campuses at Berkeley, Davis, Los Angeles, Irvine, Merced, San Diego, Riverside, San Francisco, Santa Cruz, and Santa Barbara. These campuses have a combined student body of more than 285,000 students.
Univ Address Tuition Grad Rate
University of California-Berkeley 200 California Hall, Berkeley, California 94720 $11,442 93%

Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.

What to Expect from the Online Master’s in Cyber Security Program

Online master’s in cyber security programs prepare candidates for leadership positions in the field. They provide students with the knowledge and skills required to create effective security policies, comprehend cyber dangers, and mitigate the negative consequences of data breaches. Students can expect to spend approximately two years learning advanced cybersecurity concepts in these graduate-level programs. Most degrees require 30 to 36 credits, which equates to 10 to 12 courses. While some master’s degrees in cybersecurity courses concentrate on cybersecurity theory, others involve hands-on training in real-world issues encountered by professionals in the field. Capstone projects are common at the end of a program and may include research or fieldwork. Students at some cybersecurity schools are instead expected to conduct research and write a master’s thesis. It is also noteworthy that many schools include certifications as part of their programs.

Students can pursue a master’s in cyber security both online and off campus. Cybersecurity master’s programs, as an internet-focused major, lend themselves well to online learning. Students can take classes, work on concepts, research, and tackle course challenges just as easily from their homes as they can in traditional classrooms.

Some of the courses one can expect from this graduate-level degree include:

Security Risk Analysis and Planning

This course delves into fundamental aspects of information security risk and planning, such as risk analysis, disaster recovery, business continuity, security controls, and incident response. The training will also look at dangers in relation to financial rules and privacy.

Network Assessment and Defense

In this course, students learn about secure network basics, protocols, and analysis, as well as threats and vulnerabilities, data, application, and host security, identity management, and access control. Students examine defensive strategies for securing a company’s network and determine the overall network security posture and vulnerability assessment fundamentals.

Investigation and Digital Forensics

Students in this course understand the theory, practice, and concepts of digital forensics through investigating computer, operating system, network, mobile device, and other digital forensics areas. Identification, acquisition, collection, authentication, preservation, analysis, examination, and presentation of digital forensic evidence are among the topics covered.

Foundation in Information Assurance

This course addresses fundamental principles and provides students with the foundation skills for network, communication, and data security, as well as the knowledge for designing, implementing, and monitoring enterprise-level security and system integrity.

Other examples of courses in the online master’s in cyber security degree include but are not limited to:

  • Risk Analysis
  • Cyberlaw and Ethics
  • Cyberlaw and Policy
  • Human Factors in Security
  • Designing and Implementing Cloud Security
  • Applied Cryptography
  • Advanced Mobile Forensics and Security
  • Securing Wireless Networks
  • Telecommunications and Networking
  • Network Security
  • Ethical Hacking & Countermeasures
  • Linux Networking and Security
  • Incident Detection and Response
  • Conducting Penetration and Security Tests
  • The Hacker Mind: Profiling the IT Criminal

Degree Types for Online Master’s in Cyber Security Programs

A cyber security master’s is primarily of two types – the Master of Arts in Cyber Security (MACS) and the Master of Science in Cyber Security (MSCS), explained below:

Master of Arts in Cyber Security (MA Cyber Security)

The Master of Arts in Cyber Security (MA in Cyber Security or MACS) is a graduate-level degree that combines cyber security with studying the humanities and the liberal arts. Even though those with a master of arts in cyber security are qualified for top-level teaching positions in universities, few students opt for this degree type.

Master of Science in Cyber Security (MS in Cyber Security)

A Master of Science in Cyber Security (also abbreviated as MS in Cyber Security or MSCS) is a degree program that takes a more theoretical, research-based approach to the field of cyber security. Graduates with a master’s degree in cyber security have the practical experience and theoretical grounding for leadership positions in the field.

Areas of Specialization in Online Master’s in Cyber Security Programs

Specializations are an excellent way to study a niche topic within the subject domain. The online master’s in cyber security program provides students with a variety of specializations to choose from, allowing them to concentrate their academic efforts on specific subject areas that particularly interest them, each of which has a clear path to employment. Here are some online master’s in cyber security specializations:

Degree SpecializationDescriptionCareer Options
MSCS Security AnalystThis specialization focuses on testing methods and techniques to identify and mitigate risks to a company’s infrastructure while providing application and network-based security and encryption using industry-standard protocols.Cyber security analyst
MSCS Incident Management & Business ContinuityThis specialization focuses on dealing with and responding to various security incidents, identifying vulnerabilities, and implementing appropriate countermeasures to reduce the risk of information failure.Cyber security incident handler, cyber incident responder
MSCS Digital ForensicsThis specialization emphasizes demonstrating the necessary skill set of a computer forensic investigator. Candidates who want to become digital forensics experts will learn about various aspects of digital forensics, such as investigating network intrusions and mobile forensics, through this specialization.Computer forensic investigator, digital forensic investigator, cybercrime analyst
MSCS Cloud Security ArchitectThis specialization focuses on designing, planning, analyzing, configuring, testing, implementing, maintaining, and supporting an organization’s cloud security infrastructure.Cloud security architect
MSCS IT Management (Information Technology Management)This specialization focuses on enterprise-level technology management, including the interactions between structure and process in project management. It also touches upon the management of IT functions within an organization.IT project manager, systems security manager
MSCS Executive Leadership in Information AssuranceThis specialization focuses on teaching students the fundamental skills needed to understand global leadership concepts, bringing together all the components needed for a C-Level information security position, and teaching students how to manage IT security projects to improve the success rate for both organizations and IT managers.Information security manager, project manager
MSCS Data Analytics FundamentalsThis specialization introduces students to the role data analysis has within an organization. They will gain experience through real-world problems using critical data technologies, methods, and tools for actionable results.Data analyst, data security specialist
MSCS Project Management FundamentalsThis specialization teaches students the tools and methods necessary to lead successful projects. They will develop project plans based on real-world scenarios and learn to work within the three constraints of time, cost, and scope.Project manager, information security manager, IT auditor

Why should I do an Online Master’s in Cyber Security?

The urgent need for highly educated security professionals will only increase as high-profile cyber-attacks become more frequent. All sizes of businesses are making significant investments in cybersecurity knowledge and tools. Graduate programs have many advantages for cybersecurity specialists. A master’s degree in cybersecurity can help professionals land information security leadership positions at businesses or governmental organizations in leadership, education, or research capacities.

Students are prepared for in-demand cyber security jobs with the help of the online master in cyber security program. They learn the knowledge and abilities required to create security measures that are effective, comprehend cyber threats, and lessen the effects of data breaches. With an online master’s in cyber security degree, one can gain a competitive edge in this lucrative, high-growth sector, where cybersecurity specialists are in high demand.

Graduates with a master’s degree in cybersecurity can anticipate a robust job market in their industry. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the projected job growth for information security analysts is 33% from 2020 to 2030. Because technical expertise and specialization are frequently required for jobs in cybersecurity, pay typically exceeds the national median wage. Many cybersecurity jobs have average yearly salaries of over $90,000.

For ready employability, some of the skills graduates would have earned from this degree include the ability to:

  • recognize how industry norms and new developments impact the field of cyber security;
  • draft information security rules based on applicable legal and regulatory requirements;
  • employ leadership techniques to improve corporate effectiveness and moral behavior;
  • create risk management, business continuity, and recovery from disaster plans;
  • secure an IT infrastructure by analyzing and fixing security problems in networks and computer systems;
  • protect organizations and clients from typical cyberattacks;
  • investigate security issues forensically and interpret them;
  • create rules and procedures to manage security concerns in the workplace;
  • work well with others in a team and communicate effectively in writing and orally;
  • recognize, assess, and counteract cyber threats; and
  • plan, design, create, deploy, test, and assess secure software.

Free Courses for Online Master’s Cyber Security Students

Although many free online courses are available over the internet, the majority of them are non-credit and unaccredited. However, they can benefit exam preparation or provide additional input for assignments. Here are a few platforms where students pursuing an online master’s in cyber security degree can find free courses:

CourseDescriptionProvided by
Topics Related to Cyber SecurityA go-to place for many online learners, Udemy offers several graduate-level courses in cyber security that provide deeper insights into the subject. While most courses come at a small fee, some are free of charge.Udemy
Topics Related to Cyber SecurityPopular online learning platform edX offers courses such as Cybersecurity for Critical Urban Infrastructure, Cyber Security Economics, Cyber Security Risk Management, and more from popular universities worldwide.edX
Topics Related to Cyber SecurityMIT OpenCourseWare has over 400 graduate-level courses that relate to several topics within cyber security, such as Network and Computer Security, Computer Systems Security, Advanced Topics in Cryptography, etc.MIT OpenCourseWare

How to get into the Online Master’s in Cyber Security Program?

Most online master’s degree programs in cyber security require an undergraduate degree in a software or computer-science-related area, as well as a GRE score. A solid foundation in math, algebra, calculus, physics and computer science is unquestionably useful. Because the specific requirements for each college vary, it is always a good idea to double-check with the admissions office for the most up-to-date information. Some of the typical online master’s in cyber security admission requirements are as follows:

Online Application & Application Fee

Completing an online application and paying the prescribed application fee.

Academic Transcripts

An official copy of academic transcripts from each college/university attended.

Undergraduate Degree + Grade Point Average

An undergraduate degree and Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 or more.

Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) Scores

An official copy of GRE or GMAT scores no older than 5 years.

Graduate Résumé or Curriculum Vitae

The latest résumé or CV that provides personal information and work experience.

Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose

A statement outlining how the program relates to the applicant’s career goals.

Letters of Recommendation

At least 2 letters of recommendation from those who can provide a thorough evaluation of the applicant’s abilities at the graduate level. 

Proof of English Proficiency

A document proving proficiency in English (if the native tongue is or education was not in English).

Online Master’s Cyber Security No GRE Programs

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) tests a student’s capacity to finish graduate coursework independently and is often demanded as an admissions requirement at many universities. Fortunately, there is a trend for numerous schools to make GRE scores optional or redundant. An institution may leave out the GRE requirement in selective circumstances, but in doing so, it will be more selective and have higher requirements for minimum undergraduate GPA, work experience, certification, recommendation letters, and other criteria. Some examples of institutions that offer an online master’s in cyber security no GRE program are the Berkeley School of Information, where the GRE is optional, St. Bonaventure University, where no GRE/GMAT is required, and the University of Houston, where no GRE/GMAT is required until 2024.

How Long does it take to complete the Online Master’s Cyber Security Program?

A typical online master’s in cyber security degree would require between 30 and 36 credits, which could be completed in around 2 years of full-time study. Naturally, this would depend on the program, college, and necessary core and elective courses. A thesis, capstone project, or internship can also influence the length of a program. For working adults, several universities offer part-time programs that can last anywhere from 2 to 4 years to finish and occasionally even longer. Here is a summary of how long the cyber security master program would be:

  • Time to complete a full-time online master’s in cyber security: about 2 years
  • Time to complete a part-time online master’s in cyber security: between 2 and 4 years

Accelerated Online Master’s Cyber Security Programs

Undergraduate majors at some colleges can apply for admission to a master of cybersecurity degree program during the second semester of their junior year. If accepted, a certain number of classes taken in the senior year would be counted toward both the undergraduate and graduate degrees. In effect, the combined bachelor’s and master’s in cyber security can be completed in 4+1 years instead of the usually required 4+2 years. Examples of universities offering such combined programs include Bellevue University, The University of Rhode Island, and Missouri State University.

Accreditations for Online Master’s Cyber Security Programs

Cyber security is a global industry that is rapidly expanding. Hiring managers want to invest in dependable, skilled workers with verifiable credentials. No company wants to hire a cyber security professional with an unrecognized or bogus degree; instead, they prefer a candidate with an accredited degree. As a result, it is critical to select an accredited college that offers an online master’s in cyber security degree program. Colleges can be accredited by independent organizations recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (USDE) and/or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), which includes the six regional accreditation agencies:

  • New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
  • Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
  • Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
  • Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
  • Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

In addition to the college’s accreditation, some cyber security programs may be programmatically accredited. Accredited master’s in cyber security degree programs may bear the seal of accrediting bodies such as the National Security Agency (NSA). The NSA maintains a list of Centers of Academic Excellence (CAE). More information on accreditation is available in the Guide to College Accreditation.

How to Pay for an Online Master in Cyber Security Program?

It can cost a lot of money to earn a master’s degree in cyber security online. Education Data reports that the average price of a master’s degree in the United States is $66,340. Although many would save money on living expenses, food, and transportation if they attended school online, the high cost of education is still a major deterrent. Financial aid is available for students who wish to pursue an online master’s in cyber security degree, and they may be eligible for the following sources of funding:

Scholarships

Scholarships

Scholarships are given to individuals who have demonstrated both academic and personal excellence/ Since they do not require repayment and are relatively easy to come by, they are the foremost choice of students.

Grants

Grants

Like scholarships, grants are not a form of debt that must be paid back. An applicant’s demonstrated financial need is usually given greater consideration than their GPA. Money from the grant can be put toward school fees, books, and supplies.

Work-Study Programs

Work-Study Programs

Students can earn money for their tuition by participating in work-study programs. The majority of these occupations are related in some way to a student’s academic or extracurricular activities. Participants in work-study programs gain valuable skills and work experience and earn money too.

Graduate Assistantships

Graduate Assistantships

Students in graduate school interested in teaching or conducting research can apply for assistantships with faculty. Graduate assistants are often offered financial compensation or partial or full tuition waivers in exchange for their time and effort.

Student Loans

One option for covering higher education costs is to borrow money in the form of a student loan. Student loans are available from banks, financial institutions, and the federal government. It is critical to remember that interest is charged on loans, so that borrowing money will raise the overall cost of education. Learn about Donors for Student Loans and Grants for Student Loans to learn how to apply for loan forgiveness and avoid repaying student loans.

FAFSA

FAFSA

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA is an application for federal financial aid that all prospective and current college students must complete to determine if they are eligible for aid. The FAFSA Student Aid guide explains more.

Read about What is Financial Aid? and find out everything there is to know about college funding in the How to Pay for College guide.

Scholarships for Online Master’s in Cyber Security Students

Scholarships are the most practical solution to the problem of how to pay for college. Fewer students will incur debt to pay for college if they can access these ‘free’ funds. Schools, nonprofits, corporates, and even private individuals offer scholarships to deserving students. Some examples of these are:

ScholarshipDescription Award/AmountApplication Deadline
(ISC)² Graduate Scholarships(ISC)² and its Center for Cyber Safety and Education encourage and support students pursuing a degree in cybersecurity, information assurance, or a similar field.Between $1,000 and $5,000 x 20 awardsFebruary 2024
Scholarship For Service (SFS)The Scholarship For Service (SFS) program provides undergraduate and graduate (MS or Ph.D.) cybersecurity students with scholarships for up to 3 years of support. In exchange for their scholarships, recipients must agree to work for the U.S. government in a cybersecurity-related capacity after graduation for the award period.VariesVaries
SWISS Scholarships for WomenThe SWISS Scholarships for Women program aims to increase the representation of women in the information security workforce and help them in the early stages of their careers.$2,000 or moreFebruary 1, annually

What are the best cyber security online master’s?

The best cyber security master’s programs are accredited, offer specializations and program customization, and give students hands-on experience in the lab or through research or internships. This page lists some of the best online master’s in cyber security degree programs in the U.S.

Can I do a master’s in cybersecurity online?

Can I do a master’s in cyber security without a bachelor’s?

Will I gain practical skills in cyber security through a master’s program?

How many years is a master’s in cyber security degree?

How much does a master’s in cyber security cost?

Can I take a non-thesis master’s in cyber security online?

Career Opportunities and Salaries after an Online Master’s Cyber Security Degree

Cyberthreats are present in every major industry because so many businesses now run their day-to-day operations using network technology. Graduates of an online master’s in cyber security degree frequently find employment in a variety of settings, including large and small companies, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies. The career prospects for cyber security professionals seem very bright too. For example, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that about 16,300 openings for information security analysts will be added each year, on average, between 2020 and 2030. Some of the typical roles cyber security graduates take up include:

  • Operating System Security Specialist
  • Cyber Security Analyst
  • Information Assurance Manager
  • Security Operations Center Analyst
  • Cyber Incident Responder
  • Information Systems Security Administrator
  • Security Administrator
  • Mobile Security Specialist
  • Information Systems Security Manager

Here are some examples of jobs in the field, as well as their median annual salaries and projected job growth:

Occupation Job Description Skills RequiredMedian Annual Salary Job Growth (up to 2030)
Computer and Information Research ScientistsComputer and information scientists develop novel uses for current and emerging technology. They research and create complicated computing problems in science, medicine, business, and other disciplines.Logical thinking, problem-solving skills, math skills, analytical skills, communication skills, interpersonal skills, detail-oriented$131,49022% (much faster than average)
Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and TestersSoftware developers construct computer programs that enable users to perform specific tasks, as well as the underlying systems that power devices or operate networks. Analysts and testers dealing with software quality assurance design and run software tests to look for flaws and learn how products work.Interpersonal skills, problem-solving skills, analytical skills, communication skills, detail-oriented, creativity$110,14022% (much faster than average)
Computer and Information Systems ManagersComputer and information systems managers organize, coordinate, and direct computer-related operations inside an organization. They are also known as information technology (IT) managers or IT project managers. They contribute to developing an organization’s information technology goals and are responsible for putting those goals into action using computer systems.Organizational skills, communication skills, analytical skills, business skills, decision-making skills, leadership skills$159,01011% (faster than average)
Information Security AnalystsInformation security analysts create and implement security safeguards for a company’s computer networks and systems. They develop security standards and evaluate computer and network systems for flaws.Creative skills, problem-solving skills, analytical skills, communication skills, detail-oriented$102,60033% (much faster than average)

Certifications and Licensing for Online Master’s in Cyber Security Students

Acquiring a professional certification in cyber security is an excellent way to round out one’s education and demonstrate to employers that one is qualified for the job. The goal of specialized advanced certifications is to demonstrate technical proficiency in a subfield of cyber security. Many businesses and organizations offer general, vendor-specific, and vendor-neutral (third-party) certifications to master’s degree holders. However, in some cases, additional qualifications and work experience may be required. Examples of some certifications are:

GIAC Certifications

GIAC Certifications creates and manages world-class professional cybersecurity certifications. Numerous certifications are available in intrusion, defense, cloud security, etc. Examples include:

GIAC Certifications provide the most rigorous assurance of cyber security knowledge and skill to industry, government, and military clients worldwide.

NICCS Certifications (Catalog)

Through its cyber security certifications, the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Careers and Studies (NICCS) provides the tools and resources needed to ensure that the nation’s workforce has the necessary cybersecurity training and education. NICCS has compiled a list of well-known industry certifications useful for anyone working in cybersecurity. Some from the list include:

In almost all instances, licensing is not required to work as a cybersecurity specialist, except in defense, where the concerned department’s training and credentialing lead to automatic licensure.

Additional Resources for Online Master’s in Cyber Security Students

Establishing and maintaining connections with other IT and cyber security professionals is essential for career development. Graduates and working professionals can benefit from membership in a professional organization by gaining access to relevant journals and publications, keeping abreast of the latest developments in their field and cyber threats, and establishing professional connections that can lead to the discovery of innovative solutions. For those who have already earned a master’s degree in cyber security online, here are some resources to consider:

Center for Cyber Safety and Education

The Center for Cyber Safety and Education, formerly known as the (ISC)² Foundation, is a charitable non-profit dedicated to making the internet safer for all. Through educational programs, scholarships, and research, the organization works to ensure that people all over the world have a positive and safe online experience.

National Cybersecurity Society (NCSS)

The National Cybersecurity Society (NCSS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing small businesses with cybersecurity education, awareness, and advocacy. The NCSS assists small companies in assessing their cybersecurity risk, disseminating threat information to owners, and providing advice on the services required to stay safe online.

Information Systems Security Association (ISSA)

The Information Systems Security Association, Inc. (ISSA) is a non-profit international organization of information security practitioners and professionals. It offers publications, educational forums, and peer interaction opportunities to its members to help them improve their knowledge, skills, and professional growth.

International Association of Computer Science and Information Technology (IACSIT)

The International Association of Computer Science and Information Technology (IACSIT) employs a variety of strategies to advance computer science and information technology. It is a registered international scientific association of computer science and information technology scholars dedicated to promoting and conducting collaborative interdisciplinary research in cutting-edge methodologies and technologies in its areas of expertise.

International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP)

The International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP) is a resource for professionals looking to advance their careers by assisting their organizations in risk management and data protection. IAPP claims to be the world’s largest and most comprehensive global information privacy community.

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